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Cherry blossoms at Shinjuku Gyoen - 2017

Yesterday I posted pictures about my visit to Chidorigafuchi, but on the same day I also went to Shinjuku Gyoen. Unfortunately, after getting home late from work, 11 pm, I only had time to do one article, so here is the second. Probably Shinjuku Gyoen was the pick of the two and in all honesty, I’ve always been a huge fan of it. It really is one of my favourite parks in Tokyo.

Some of Shinjuku's skyscrapers in the background

The trees, in my opinion, were probably a touch better than those at Chidorigafuchi, but that could be debated I guess. I love going there anyway, as to shoot the skyscrapers in Nishi-Shinjuku which pop up behind the trees is always great, a sight I never tire of.

Once again though, the trees weren’t quite at their best, but getting closer. The people that were there, seemed to enjoy them though. Shinjuku Gyoen has about 1500 cherry blossoms so there are more than enough for everyone to enjoy.

Which has lead me to think about something over the last few years. Each to their own, I know and accept, but why is hanami so important here? It seems that just having a party under the trees and drinking with friends seems to be more important recently. A great many people never seem to have a good look at the trees and admire the flowers, just give them a cursory glance and then return to their friends, food and drink. Maybe, it is just me overthinking in my old age? I don’t know, but it is what I see at many places. Inokashira park, Ueno park and other places where drinking and picnics are allowed, are the same.

Anyway, the trees for those that went to Shinjuku Gyoen to enjoy them were pretty good. Once again though, like Chidorigafuchi, they weren’t at their peak, but getting pretty close. I hope you enjoy the pictures and if you need to see the park’s website, you can see that here.